Community Building – Page 2

Three Rivers Educational Technology Conference: Rewiring Learning
Building Bridges & Strengthening Connections

Tech is the tool. Joy is the driver. Partnership is the path.

Three Rivers Educational Technology Conference (TRETC) is an exciting professional development opportunity to advance the integration of educational technology for teachers, K-12 administrators, industry experts, and higher education decision makers in Southwestern PA.

Join us for a transformative conference where we delve into the dynamic journey of educational technology and its profound impact on teaching and learning.

Discover how technology integration offers students unprecedented opportunities to engage with the future of education while in the classroom. Engage with thought leaders, educators, and technologists as we uncover the tools and strategies that are revolutionizing how knowledge is imparted and absorbed.

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, policy-maker, or technology enthusiast, this conference promises to provide valuable insights and practical solutions to enhance the educational experience. Be a part of the conversation that is shaping the next generation of learning.

The goal is to leave with at least: One new skill. One big question. One meaningful connection.
Keynote Speaker
Jeff Remington is the STEM Outreach Liaison for the Penn State Center for Science and the Schools (CSATS).
Schedule
TRETC Networking and Innovation in Education Event:
Aurora Innovation, Inc: Self-Driving Freight is Here
Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Aurora Innovation, Inc | 1654 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
TRETC 2026:
Date: January 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
Location: Fox Chapel School District, Dorseyville Middle School, 3732 Saxonburg Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA, 15238

Arts Ed Collaborative invites school and arts organization staff to the upcoming artlook SWPA Arts Partner Fair—an energizing afternoon designed to spark new connections and strengthen existing partnerships across our region.

Whether you’re an arts partner eager to share your school-based programming or a school representative exploring creative opportunities for students, this event is for you.

What to Expect:

🎨 Arts Partners – Host a table and showcase your offerings to educators and administrators seeking dynamic programming for their schools.

🏫 School Staff – Drop in, explore the room, and discover a wide range of arts partnership possibilities tailored to your students’ needs.

💬 Everyone – Engage in meaningful conversations, get personalized support from AEC staff, and share creative responses to today’s educational and political landscape.

We remain deeply committed to ensuring that every student has access to a powerful, personally relevant arts education. Now more than ever, collaboration is key. Let’s build a stronger, more connected arts education community—one conversation at a time.

Join us for a special evening celebrating you and your invaluable contributions to our community!

Discover resources specifically designed for classrooms and learn about the many opportunities that the History Center offers you and your students. Engage with our handling collection, explore five floors of award-winning exhibitions, and connect with the History Center Learning Team to learn how you can bring history to life in your classroom.

Enjoy light refreshments and cocktails as you mingle with fellow teachers and learn more about our offerings!

The open house is free for educators with advance registration.

Come out to the Queer Futures Forum on Wednesday, June 25th! Dreams of Hope’s Queer Youth Advisory Council is excited to host this inaugural event centering the lives of queer and Trans people in Pittsburgh.

Gather with community members to discuss the creation of a region where we are radically supported, loved, and free!

Don’t miss this invitation to forge connections and share your thoughts and desires with the community. Let’s live out our dreams!

RSVP and see event details at queerfuturesforum.eventbrite.com

Join us for the Pittsburgh Launch of Brittany J. Thurman’s new middle grade mystery, Opal Watson: Private Eye. Set in Chicago, this novel follows the story of a young sleuth using her detective skills to solve the mystery of who is sabotaging the renovations in her apartment building… With the help of her cousin Frank, her best friend Madison, her trusty cane, Pinkerton, and maybe even a new friend Ivy, will Opal solve the mystery and help save her beloved building from being bought out by developers?

Come and meet the author, learn more about the story, and celebrate this launch with us! Brittany will be joined in conversation by our very own Imogen. We’ll do reading, a conversation, and a Q&A!

This event is free and everyone is welcome. Brittany’s book will be available for purchase and signing at the event. We hope to see you there!

Ideal for ages 8+ but all are welcome!

Escape the Deep is a brand new production created and performed by theatriQ, Dreams of Hope’s queer and Trans youth performing arts ensemble.
In 2030, the beloved town of Mortimer Harbor is flooding. Communities are displaced, housing is scarce, and the government’s denial and resource hoarding only make things worse.

The displaced flock to The Lighthouse, “where the lights are always on for you.” But what was once a source of vibrance for the community has been left to the elements.

Two friends reunite while another pair feuds. Still, they must gather the Lighthouse’s past patrons and delve into its history to uncover what led to the unraveling. With the water on the rise and the authorities closing in, will they be able to escape the deep?

Join us for this brand new production created entirely by queer and Trans youth!

Our budding mentorship program at Dreams of Hope offers you the opportunity to mentor queer & Trans young people. With daily transgressions against our humanity, we look to our community for models of leadership and care across generations!

If you want to share your journey, talents, and wisdom and impact a young person’s life, consider attending Dreams of Hope’s Mentor Training! The inaugural training with Dakota Rottino-Garilli is the first step to getting involved in our mentorship program as an adult mentor. We’re excited to have you!

(If you are looking to be mentored, save the date for our youth training on May 10th :D)

Please note: this event is available at no cost; however, space is limited. Please consider your registration a commitment and let us know if you can no longer make it!

Experience the forefront of innovation in Pittsburgh at the 2025 STEM Summit! This event highlights the wide range of dynamic and evolving STEM careers shaping the future workforce in the Pittsburgh Region.

WHEN: Friday, April 4, 2025 From 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM

WHERE: Kick off and Experiences: CCAC Center for Education, Innovation, and Training | 808 Ridge Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 and then Multiple Tour Stops

We welcome students in grades 8-12 to connect with leaders from the innovation sector. Participants will have the opportunity to explore hands-on learning experiences at CCAC and then embark on industry tours to delve deeper into the STEM sector. The STEM Summit will also include a keynote address and exhibit booths presented by various organizations.

The interactive experience of the STEM Summit will highlight how an individual’s strengths, interests, and passions can lead to multiple pathways to jobs in the tech industry! More information provided upon registration.

Cost:

Students (Grades 8–12): $25
Adult Chaperones (with student groups): Free
Individual Adult Attendees: $25

Chaperone Policy: we require one teacher or adult for every 10 students.

TEACHERS: If you are registering multiple students and wish to be billed via invoice, please email Marie Pelloni at mpelloni@pghtech.org to get a group form.

Agenda:

Keynote:
Brian Joseph | Founder of Touchstone Research Laboratory, LTD

Brian Joseph is President, CEO, and founder of Touchstone Research Laboratory (www.TRL.com). Brian is a serial entrepreneur, scientist, and inventor. He is named on over 30 patents, has managed over 100 million dollars of R&D programs in the government and private sectors, and built a predominately government funded research laboratory that has won more than 100 SBIR contracts. Touchstone has spun out three tech companies in the areas of materials science, aerospace composites, and aerospace materials testing.

Step Inside the Advanced Manufacturing Industry at the 2025 STEM Summit! Are you ready to pull back the curtain and see what powers the future? STEM Summit: Forge the Future will take you straight into the heart of the advanced manufacturing industry! Experience the cutting-edge technology and innovation shaping tomorrow’s workforce in the Pittsburgh Region.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

TIME: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM

WHERE: Kickoff and Hands-On Experiences: Digital Foundry at Penn State, New Kensington 855 5th Ave, New Kensington, PA 15068 Followed by Behind-the-Scenes Industry Tours

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Students in grades 8–12 with a curiosity for innovation! This is your opportunity to explore the tools, technologies, and skills that are revolutionizing the manufacturing industry.

Here’s what you’ll experience:

Exclusive Industry Access: Go behind the scenes with guided tours of advanced manufacturing facilities, where the future is being forged.

Inspiring Keynote: Hear from an industry leader about the incredible possibilities within advanced manufacturing.

Interactive Exhibits: Explore how the Digital Foundry at Penn State New Kensington is pushing boundaries and creating pathways to careers that shape the future.

This immersive experience will connect your unique talents, interests, and passions to career opportunities in advanced manufacturing. Learn how the combination of robotics, automation, and innovation is transforming industries, and how you can be part of it.

Unlock the secrets of advanced manufacturing and be inspired to build the future! Register today to secure your spot and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Agenda:

Keynote:

Donta Green | Executive Director, Trade Institute of Pittsburgh

Donta Green is a visionary leader, strategic thinker, and elite culture creator who has transformed the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh (TIP) as its second Executive Director. Under his leadership, TIP has strengthened its impact, equipping individuals with barriers to employment with the skills, support, and opportunities needed to build sustainable careers. With an exceptional ability to inspire and collaborate, Donta fosters an environment of excellence, ensuring TIP continues to be a catalyst for workforce development and economic empowerment in Western Pennyslvania region.

Beyond his leadership at TIP, Donta is a dynamic motivator and mentor, serving as head football coach at his alma mater, Pittsburgh Westinghouse. His ability to build a winning culture was evident in 2019 when he led the team to its first city league championship in 26 years, and again in 2022 when they reached the state championship for the first time in school history. Donta and his staff has won five conference championships in his first six seasons at the helm. His program was nationally recognized in 2023 when DICK’s Sporting Goods Foundation awarded Westinghouse its first-ever 75for75 Sports Matter Grant.

Deeply committed to community service, Donta serves on several boards, including the Homewood-Brushton YMCA and the Laurel Highlands Workforce Opportunity Center. He has been recognized as a leader among leaders, earning numerous accolades such as Pittsburgh Magazine’s 40 Under 40, the Pittsburgh Business Times C-Suite Award, and the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year. In 2023, he was honored with the prestigious FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. He was recognized in 2025 as the Emerging Leader Awardee by the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh.

This event will focus on blending computer science, gaming, and ELA to support integration of game-based STEM learning into educational and community spaces.

The workshop will feature interactive sessions, hands-on discussions, and opportunities to collaborate with educators, curriculum coordinators, school leaders, and after-school program organizers.

Key topics include:

Discovering needs of schools, teachers, and community organizations in implementing game-based STEM curricula
Identifying challenges in scaling computational thinking and data literacy in middle school environments
Collaborating with experts to develop actionable solutions
Exploring funding opportunities to support STEM and game-based initiatives